J. Yesudas won the 1993 Kerala State Film Award for Best Singer for the song Chandrakaantham Kondu. Reception In an original review of the film, The Hindu writes: " Lohitadas, on whose story and script the film is based, tends to elaborate rather than elucidate. It takes a profound insight into human psyche and political ethos to mold a true revolutionary, be he an extremist or not. In the case of Chandradas, he relies on verbosity and revels in platitudes. It may sound poetic, but there is a tinge of pedantic pretense when he declares that he has been wandering about like a wounded bird. The screenplay, nevertheless, has its moments of emotional conflict and confrontation involving all the major protagonists." Further writes: "The start of the film could have been crisper with some pruning of the introductory scenes, however picturesque they are. The encounter between the blunt and bitter K.V.R and the mellowed Chandradas, his former disciple is evocative. Though not the dance-drama, it is Haritha's performance in it that is so scintillating as to catch Chandradas' unawares, and the audience as well. Pining for each other, the anguish of the father and the daughter, and the latter's hapless plight cloistered as she is within the hostel are narrated with conviction. Set in far-off Culcutta, the flashback featuring the younger Chandradas and Anita and their amorous meeting on the fateful night are driven home in shot but sharp touches. Bharathan's slair to romanticize is fairly evident in the father-daughter joint sojourn." Regarding the performances they write: "Appearing as Chandradas, Mammootty strives to act natural with a fair degree of success. But he looks ill at ease with his beard on. So much acting potential does newcomer Chippi evince in the role of Haritha that she is sure to go places. Sasikala is alluring as Anita while Lalu Alex attracts some somber acting as Harikumaran. Nedumudi Venu is quite at home as K. K. Nair, while Oduvil Unnikrishnan scores as Thirumeni, his Jeeves-like manager. Gopi's portrayal of the fireband K.V.R has the feel and heat of old ambers burning still." About the music of the film The Hindu writes: " Kaithaprom's lyrics are tuned to pleasing music by Ravi Bombay. Madhu Ambrat's marvellous camera paints haunting hues almost throughout. All said and done, Patheyam is a welcome relief at a time when butchery is glorified in film after film." Neelima